Dunkin' is a better choice for those seeking affordability, customization, and widely available flavored iced coffee. Nespresso Vertuo Next is ideal for those prioritizing convenience, variety in flavor profiles and intensity, and a pod-based brewing system.
| Attribute | Dunkin' | Nespresso Vertuo Next |
|---|---|---|
| Roast Type | Medium roast (signature), dark roast options available | Varies depending on the capsule |
| Flavor Profile | Smooth, medium-roast flavor with hints of dark chocolate and toffee. Flavored options like French Vanilla, Hazelnut, and Caramel Swirl are also available. "Midnight Coffee" blend is a bold and robust dark roast with a smooth, slightly bitter taste. | Varies widely based on the capsule; ranges from mild and delicate to bold and intense, with notes such as floral, fruity, nutty, caramel, and chocolate. |
| Caffeine Content | 14-ounce cup: 210 mg. Varies based on drink size and preparation method. Iced coffee tends to have higher caffeine content. Espresso shots: 118mg. Large iced coffee: nearly 400mg. Small decaf coffee: 7mg. | Ranges from 60mg to 200mg per cup, depending on the blend and cup size. Espresso coffees (40ml) range from 60 to 150mg. Decaf options contain very little caffeine. |
| Brewing Method | Drip, French press, and cold brew. For iced coffee, brew at double strength. | Centrifusion technology (spins capsule at up to 7,000 RPM) and barcode scanning |
| Pod Compatibility (for Nespresso) | Dunkin' doesn't officially offer Nespresso-compatible pods, but some third-party brands may offer compatible pods. | Exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules |
| Price per Cup | Small Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee typically ranges from $2 to $2.50, but this can vary. | $0.90 to $1.30 |
| Sustainability Practices | Committed to sourcing 100% sustainable coffee by 2025. Partners with organizations like the Rainforest Alliance and World Coffee Research. Focuses on reducing waste and improving energy efficiency. | 80% recycled aluminum in capsules, 50% recycled plastic in Vertuo Next machines. Recycling programs. Aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. |
| Availability | Widely available across the United States and in many international markets. Available in Dunkin' stores, grocery stores, and online. | Major retailers, department stores, and online |
| Customer Loyalty Program | Dunkin' Rewards program allows members to earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for free beverages and food items. Integrated with the Dunkin' mobile app. | Yes |
| Iced Coffee Options | Original iced coffee, cold brew, and flavored iced coffees like Caramel Swirl and Butter Pecan. | Can be used to create iced coffee with specific capsules designed for iced coffee |
| Specialty Drinks Offered | Lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Seasonal and limited-time specialty drinks are also available. | Espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, and mug sizes, which can be used as a base for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks |
| Strength Options | Customers can customize the strength of their coffee by adding extra shots of espresso or choosing different blends. | Intensity levels ranging from 1 to 13 |